PLANS for a golf driving range in Bishop Auckland could be given planning approval today.

The application for a 14-booth range at Flatts Farm will be heard by Wear Valley District Council's development control committee when is it expected to get the go-ahead.

A previous proposal for a driving range on the site was refused in 1978 but planning officers will this week recommend the new application is granted, subject to conditions.

If the scheme is approved, it could pave the way for a nine-hole golf course and a clubhouse on the site.

The application has been brought by Allan Barker, co-owner of the Castle Hotel pub in Bishop Auckland Market Place.

He feels the driving range would bring tremendous benefits to the town but declined to comment on the plans, saying he did not want to pre-judge the outcome of the application.

Planning officers will tell members that the development of a golf driving range is on that site is 'acceptable in principle.'

The proposal has caused concern because of its location on a flood plain and lengthy discussions have taken place between the council and the Environment Agency.

The Environment Agency initially objected to the application, but these have been lifted following a risk assessment and subject to a condition that the floor level of the range is raised well above the flood level.

Another concern has been the visual impact of the development, as it can be seen from many public vantage points, including the Newton Cap Viaduct.

A report to the committee says: "A comprehensive scheme of landscaping will need to be agreed, which should include substantial areas of native species of trees and hedges to help integrate the development into the surrounding area."

The application, which has attracted no formal objections from nearby residents, includes a car park to accommodate 22 vehicles, which officers feel is sufficient for the range.

The report raises no further concerns, but includes several conditions over the design of the driving range building itself.

The meeting, which is open to the public, will be held in the Civic Centre, Crook, from 6pm.